How to Plan a Mommy and Me Photoshoot [Full Guide]
Whether you’re expecting a new arrival, have a young child at home, or are raising a teenager, this full guide is packed with expert tips to help you plan a perfect mommy and me photoshoot.
What is a mommy and me photoshoot?
A mommy and me photo shoot is a special type of photoshoot that celebrates the bond between a mother and her child. These pictures typically consist of real-life, candid moments of interaction and connection in a controlled environment.
The Process at Our Studio
Before we dive into a mommy and me photography session, I like to have an initial meeting to discuss our vision for the shoot and any special ideas or requirements you might have.
This is a chance for us to talk about styling options, clothing and accessories, and how color choices can impact the mood and tones of the final portraits.
We can work together to create a plan to make sure we get everything we need for the shoot. And most importantly, I want to make sure both you and your child feel comfortable and at ease during the session.
I understand that not everyone is naturally confident in front of the camera, so I’ll do my best to put you at ease and help you feel comfortable.
*We are currently only scheduling fashion and maternity photoshoots.
How long will these sessions take?
The length of a mommy and me session can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the photoshoot, the number of outfits and poses, and the preferences of the photographer and the expectant mother.
At Oxana Alex Photography we offer 1.5 Hour Sessions, 2 Hour Sessions and 2.5 Hour Sessions for fashion and maternity photography. See our pricing here.
It’s always a good idea to discuss the length of the session with your photographer beforehand so you know what to expect.
Why do a mommy and me session?
As mothers, we’re often the ones behind the camera, so it’s not uncommon to end up with blurry, rushed, or low-quality pictures of your little ones.
And let’s be honest, it can also be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and miss out on opportunities to create new memories with our children or parents.
That’s why I think it’s so important to take a moment to step back and capture those precious moments in a more intentional way.
A mommy and me photo session is the perfect opportunity to do exactly this.
It’s a chance to freeze time and document the incredible bond between a mothers and their children. Let’s make this moment count and create some beautiful, professional-quality pictures that you’ll always look back at with a smile:)
Not just for babies and special occasions!
One of the great things about mommy and me photo shoots is that there’s no age limit.
You can do it just because! It doesn’t have to be just for babies or special occasions, thought they are a popular gift for birthdays and Mother’s Day, don’t feel like you have to wait for a special occasion to book a mommy and me photo shoot.
Even as a teenager they will always be your child, and a mommy and me photo shoot is a great way to celebrate that special relationship.
Choosing the perfect location for mommy and me sessions
Before choosing a location for your photoshoot, give some thought to your overall creative intent. Which better appeals to your tastes—a rustic, outdoor ambiance, or a modern, edgy one? Is an accessible location more important to you than a picture-perfect one that requires some travel? Or maybe a studio photography will all amenities there is better?
We outline a lot of the benefits of booking a studio photoshoot in this article 10 Benefits of a Studio Maternity Photoshoot.
Once you have a general idea of what you’re looking for, it’s a good idea to start scouting out locations and even taking some test shots. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box! Here are a few ideas:
1. A local park or botanical garden
2. A beach, for a laid-back, tropical vibe. Who doesn’t love golden hour shots at the beach!
3. A city street or rooftop, surrounded by lights, for a more urban and edgy look
4. A field or meadow, with tall grass and wildflowers contrasting the blue sky as a backdrop
5. A mountain or forest setting, for a more rustic, natural feel
6. A trendy neighborhood or downtown area, with colorful murals or interesting storefronts
7. An outdoor pool, for a refreshing and playful vibe
8. A studio, for a more controlled and versatile setting with a variety of backgrounds and props to choose from. See 11 Steps to Prepare for Your in Studio Pregnancy Photoshoot for more tips.
Choose a Style for your photo shoots
You can have fun with intricate props and create a fantasy world, or go for a more fashionable theme that’s customized to your family.
Alternatively, you can opt for a more formal, posed approach that still allows for mom and baby interaction rather than just standing still.
These types of images can be more modern and fresh than a traditional studio portrait. We put together 34 Creative Maternity Photo Shoot Ideas to give you some inspiration.
Consider Your Home Decor
Some people choose to keep their pictures in an album and only show family and friends, others prefer to hang them around the house like works of art!
If you are the second type of person, you’ll want to display your beautiful photos in a way that fits in with the overall look and feel of your home.
One thing to think about is the color scheme of your house. If you have a colorful home, you might want to coordinate your clothes with those colors to create a cohesive look.
On the other hand, if your home has a predominantly white color scheme, black and white images might be a better fit.
By taking your home decor into account, you can create photos that are not only beautiful and meaningful, but also seamlessly fit in with the overall natural aesthetic of your space.
Trust me, it’s absolutely worth putting in a little extra thought and effort!
What to wear for a mommy and me photoshoot?
There are endless options for this one and they depend on the feeling of the photoshoot. For a more formal and classic look, you might want to go with dresses or formal attire. For a more laid-back and casual vibe, you could opt for jeans and a t shirt.
You can also mix and match to create a look that’s a blend of both formal, light and casual and don’t forget matching outfits for portraits! Just remember to keep your kid’s comfort and preferences in mind as well, and choose what they will feel good in.
At our studio, we include designer wardrobe and accessories free of charge with your session.
Start with Mom’s Outfits
When it comes to planning outfits for a mommy and me photo shoot, it’s a good idea to start with your outfits first.
Children’s clothes are usually easy to coordinate and always look adorable, so you can easly pick them after!
Some outfit ideas for moms might include wearing a flowing maxi dress, a chic jumpsuit, or a stylish blouse paired with statement pants. Don’t be afraid to splurge a little!
Texture and movement are the name of the game
Texture and movement can really make a big difference with these shots.
Look for little details like lace or embroidery, or opt for chunky sweaters or clothing that moves and flows- that drapes and enhances the visual effect can be both beautiful and comfortable. Plus, it’ll make you feel like you’re dancing and having a good time!
Strong patterns can be a bit challenging to match, so adding texture can help add interest and depth in your photos.
Don’t be afraid to let your inner dancer shine!
Stick to a similar color palette
When it comes to choosing what to wear for a mommy and me photo shoot, one thing to consider is keeping a similar color palette.
This can help create a cohesive and harmonious look in your photos.
For example, you could choose muted colors for your tops and bottoms, and then add a pop of color with a bold pair of shoes or a colorful t-shirt. Another option is to go all-out with bold colors and patterns, if that’s more your style.
Be mindful of bright shades or clashing hues that may result in uneven coloring on skin tones.
Some examples of cohesive color palettes might include: a combination of navy, grey, and white dress and blue socks; a selection of beige, cream, and taupe with a mustard yellow blouse and green shoes; or a selection of black, grey, and silver with a purple ensemble with pink socks.
What should a child wear?
As you curate your little one’s attire for a mommy and me photoshoot, it’s crucial to prioritize their comfort and sartorial preferences. Even young children may possess discerning tastes in regards to the fabrics and styles of wardrobe they wear, and it’s nice to involve them in the decision-making process.
For instance, if your little girl is sensitive to certain fabrics or dislikes garments with labels, take these factors into consideration as you choose her outfit.
Keep in mind that your kid or kids will likely be more amenable and comfortable during the photoshoot if they feel at ease in their garments.
Some examples of comfortable clothing ideas for kids might include: a soft cotton dress with leggings and boots, a knit sweater and jeans with sneakers, or a linen shirt and shorts with sandals.
No matter what what you pick, they will look adorable!
Are you Nursing?
If you’re planning to include breastfeeding photos in your session, it’s a good idea to pick an outfit that is easily accessible and doesn’t require too much fiddling to nurse. Brands like Seraphine and PinkBlush (their maternity collection) offer a range of breastfeeding dresses and tops that are both functional and stylish.
These garments are designed specifically with nursing moms in mind, so they’re a great choice for your photo shoot.
You can also search online for other options and find a variety of nursing-friendly clothing options. Just keep comfort and practicality in mind, and you’ll be able to find the perfect outfit for your little one during your mommy and me photoshoot.
Tip: Avoid logos
For achieving a timeless and classic look, try avoiding logos.
While it’s certainly fun to dress your daughters in their favorite character to watch on tv (we all love Wonder Woman!) or branded clothing for special occasions but these types of garments can often be distracting and take away from the overall aesthetic of the photoshoot.
Instead, opt for simple and understated pieces that will stand the test of time and allow your child’s personality to shine through.
Mommy and me poses
Here are some poses to add to you photoshoot ideas!
The hug: This classic pose involves simply embracing your kid tightly
The kiss: Plant a tender kiss on your child’s cheek or forehead
Cuddle: Snuggle up close with your kid, capturing your bond.
Reading together: Sit with your kids and read a book together, capturing the joy of shared reading and the importance of education.
Doing an activity together: Choose an activity that you and your kids enjoy, such as painting, cooking, or playing a musical instrument, and capture the joy of doing something together.
Touching noses image: Bring your faces close together and touch noses, creating a playful and affectionate pose.
Sitting on mom’s lap image: Have your baby sit on your lap, capturing the comfort and security of being close to their mother.
Kiss belly (if pregnant) image: If you’re expecting another child, consider a pose where your little one is holding or kissing your belly, symbolizing the love and anticipation for their new brother or sister.
Play with props: incorporate toys, books, or even balloons, to add a playful and whimsical touch and add interest to your portraits.
Fashion shoot: Pose in a way that highlights your stylish ensembles, creating a more fashion-forward aesthetic.
Hold your toddler up in the air: Create a sense of joy by lifting your toddler up in the air, capturing a moment of lighthearted fun.
Schedule early & communicate clearly
We always recommend to schedule your session early, see our detailed guide on when is the best time for maternity photos to make sure you book your session in time!
Also, make sure to communicate any special requests or preferences you may have to your professional photographer ahead of the shoot. These sessions are often held for children, so it’s a good idea to take some time to prepare and make sure everything is in place beforehand.
Coordinate things like nap times and any special toys or props that your child might want to bring along. It’s also a good idea to discuss what your child likes and doesn’t like, and try to incorporate some fun and games into the session to keep them engaged and happy.
Resources
1. Top 10 Benefits of a Studio Maternity Photoshoot
2. When is the Best Time for Maternity Photos?
3. 11 Steps to Prepare for Your in Studio Pregnancy Photoshoot [Full Guide]
4. Black and White Maternity Shoot | Los Angeles Photography Studio
Oxana Alex Photography is located in Los Angeles, California & we are only booking studio shoots right now. See some of our reviews here or on Yelp.
Conclusion
Mommy and me photoshoots are a wonderful opportunity to capture the special bond between you and your little ones. From choosing the perfect location and style for your photoshoot, to planning coordinating clothes and bringing along props to add personality and movement to your images, there are so many ways to make session unique and meaningful.
We hope this article helped you so you can feel confident and excited for your mommy and me photoshoot!
FAQ’s
A mommy and me photo session captures the special bond between a mom and her child or children.
During a Mommy and Me session, you and your child will have the opportunity to take beautiful, professional photos together. You’ll be able to choose a theme, location, and outfits that reflect your personalities and interests, and your photographer will guide you through different poses and settings to capture the best shots.
These photos are more than a great Mother’s day gift! A mommy and me session is a great way to celebrate the love and connection you share, and to create beautiful, timeless memories that you can look back on.
Mommy and me photo shoots are for mothers and their children of any age.
When planning what to wear for a mommy and me photoshoot, it’s important to consider texture, color palette, and comfort. For mom, you might want to choose clothing with interesting details like lace or embroidery, or opt for flowing, drapey fabrics that add movement to your photos.
If you plan to include breastfeeding photos in your session, make sure to choose an outfit that is easily accessible and doesn’t require too much fiddling to nurse. For your child, focus on comfort and choose clothing that reflects their personal look.
How do I schedule my session?
*We are currently only scheduling Fashion and Maternity photoshoots at this time.
You can schedule your session by emailing [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
